A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Marathon vs. Tallahassee for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Marathon or Tallahassee?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Tallahassee, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marathon

Marathon is a quaint, beautiful, and relaxing island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a vibrant, youthful, and lively city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Marathon and Tallahassee: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Tallahassee?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Marathon than Tallahassee, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Marathon is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Tallahassee is more popular for its museums and shopping. Marathon is more touristy than Tallahassee and is known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Also, Marathon is famous for The Dolphin Research Center. Tallahassee is well known for its capital building and many universities.

How is Marathon different from Tallahassee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Tallahassee and Marathon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Marathon or Tallahassee?

Tallahassee is great for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Tallahassee can be an interesting and educational experience. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Marathon or Tallahassee? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Marathon is a island with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Marathon is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Marathon or Tallahassee Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Marathon and Tallahassee.

If you're looking for night time activities Marathon has a few options to choose from. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

Is Marathon or Tallahassee Better for Resorts?

Marathon is great for its luxury resorts. However, Tallahassee is not a resort destination.

In Marathon, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or Tallahassee Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is a island with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tallahassee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Marathon. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Tallahassee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Tallahassee Better for Beaches?

Marathon is great for the beach. However, Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Marathon attract visitors from all over. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Tallahassee?

Tallahassee is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Tallahassee. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Tallahassee Better for Families?

Marathon is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Marathon. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

Is Marathon or Tallahassee Better for Couples?

Marathon is great for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Marathon is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

Is Marathon or Tallahassee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallahassee is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Marathon or Tallahassee Better for Students?

Tallahassee is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Marathon is not popular with students.

Tallahassee is a great city to visit as a student. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Marathon is not popular with students.

Is Marathon or Tallahassee Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tallahassee is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is Marathon or Tallahassee a more walkable city?

Marathon and Tallahassee are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Marathon is generally not a very walkable island. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Marathon Worth Visiting? and Is Tallahassee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tallahassee or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Tallahassee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Marathon or Tallahassee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Marathon than Tallahassee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 1-2 days is enough time in Tallahassee.

Families should spend more time in Marathon than Tallahassee. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Marathon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Marathon than Tallahassee. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Marathon that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tallahassee than Marathon if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Tallahassee.

One day in Marathon or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful island of Marathon. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The city of Tallahassee offers nightlife and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Marathon or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the quaint destination of Marathon. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Tallahassee is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tallahassee, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the relaxing island of Marathon. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Tallahassee is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marathon or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Marathon. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Tallahassee is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Marathon and Tallahassee, we can see that Marathon is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Marathon Expensive? and Is Tallahassee Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Tallahassee?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Tallahassee, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Marathon or Tallahassee?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Marathon or Tallahassee in the Summer?

Both Tallahassee and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Tallahassee for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Marathon is generally around the same temperature as Tallahassee. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 84°F (29°C), and Tallahassee fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Tallahassee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Tallahassee during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 283 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. In July, Marathon usually receives less rain than Tallahassee. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marathon or Tallahassee in the Autumn?

Both Tallahassee and Marathon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Tallahassee in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Marathon is a little warmer than Tallahassee in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Tallahassee fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

In Tallahassee, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the autumn, Marathon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tallahassee. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 256 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Tallahassee. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.

Should I visit Marathon or Tallahassee in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Tallahassee. Many visitors come to Marathon in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Tallahassee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Marathon is much warmer than Tallahassee. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marathon in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Tallahassee averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Tallahassee during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 185 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Tallahassee. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or Tallahassee in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Tallahassee. Most visitors come to Marathon for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Marathon is generally a little warmer than Tallahassee. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 77°F (25°C), and Tallahassee fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Tallahassee. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 295 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Tallahassee. Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Tallahassee. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Tallahassee is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Tallahassee and Marathon